Indore Philatelists Preserve Over Rare Stamps Maha Kumbh and Simhastha Festivals

Synopsis

Two passionate philatelists from Indore, Omprakash Kedia and Alok Khadiwala, have meticulously preserved over 100 Rare Stamps Maha Kumbh Simhastha postage stamps and special postal covers featuring two of India’s most significant Hindu pilgrimage gatherings—the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj and the Simhastha Mela in Ujjain.

Their collections highlight historical postal artifacts, including a special cover from the 1977 Maha Kumbh and a rare “bazaar postcard” from the 1906 Maha Kumbh, offering a glimpse into India’s postal heritage.

A Passion for Collecting Religious Postal Memorabilia

Omprakash Kedia (73) has been fascinated by the Maha Kumbh since childhood. His passion for this religious festival led him to collect rare stamps (100 Rare Stamps Maha Kumbh) and covers associated with it. “I have been attending the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj since my childhood and have always been intrigued by the event,” he shared. Due to the limited number of postage stamps and covers issued on these festivals, finding them is an arduous task. One of his most treasured items is the special cover from the 1977 Maha Kumbh, which he obtained from an exhibition seller.

Rare stamps Finds from Pre-Independence India

Alok Khadiwala (53), another philatelist from Indore, has also preserved a vast collection of stamps and covers related to Maha Kumbh and Simhastha fairs. His most prized possession is a “bazaar card” from the 1906 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. “Bazaar cards were widely used for writing letters before India’s independence,” he explained. To expand his collection, Khadiwala even sought the help of junk dealers and rummaged through waste paper sacks to find hidden gems.

Beyond Stamps: A Collection of Religious Artifacts 

Apart from postal memorabilia, both Kedia and Khadiwala have collected ancient coins purchased by devotees as souvenirs from pilgrimage sites across India. The ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, which began on January 13, will continue until February 26, while the next Simhastha Mela in Ujjain is scheduled for 2028. Both festivals, held every 12 years, attract millions of devotees from around the world.

The dedication of these philatelists in preserving historical 100 Rare stamps and covers serves as a testament to India’s rich religious and postal heritage. Their efforts not only document history but also offer a unique perspective on the cultural significance of the Maha Kumbh and Simhastha fairs.

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We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you ever collected stamps or visited the Maha Kumbh or Simhastha Mela? Share your experiences in the comments below!